International Baccalaureate

PYP is the official curriculum framework and teaching methodology of the International Baccalaureate Organization which was developed to meet the needs of children in the Primary Years (Pre-school - Grade5). It emphasizes learning through active inquiry and aims to develop the whole child to meet certain competencies and attitudes outlined in the student profile.

PYP is an inquiry approach to learning which is rigorous, yet designed for all students. A strong emphasis is placed on the ideals of international understanding and responsible citizenship. Units of study are driven by a set of six conceptual questions based on the following universal organizing themes:

Who we are

Where we are in place and time

How we express ourselves

How the world works

How we organize ourselves

How we share our planet

Our aim is to develop globally-minded citizens who are:

Inquirers- curious and actively enjoy questioning the workings of the worldThinkers - able to problem solve and think criticallyCommunicators - able to think and communicate in more than one way

Caring- sensitive to the needs of others

Principled- fair and honest

Reflective- able to think about oneself and make constructive changes when neededKnowledgeable - able to explore and apply relevant and significant concepts

Balanced- healthy and aware of good choices

Open-minded- able to consider many possibilities before making decisions

Risk Takers or Courageous- willing to try new things

For more information about the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program visit their web site at www.ibo.org.